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What is ‘Sure Step’ Project Management Methodology?
Sure Step is an implementation methodology from Microsoft drawing on the wisdom of the Microsoft Dynamics global community’s collective experience in implementing Dynamics applications. Sure Step is a repository of proven best practices and methodologies that are used by Crestwood to manage projects in order to ensure the success of Dynamics implementations.
Sure Step has become Microsoft's strongly recommended implementation methodology for all its Dynamics products. Since all Dynamics products are implemented by partners, it's in Microsoft's interests to facilitate consistent implementations whenever possible. Microsoft's vehicle to provide this consistency is its Sure Step methodology. With the standardization of the methodology, Microsoft brings a consistent approach to documentation and terminology.
Sure Step includes:
- A Best Practices methodology for project implementations based on the Project Management Institute (PMI) methodologies, adapted for Microsoft Dynamics GP and Dynamics CRM
- Tools for implementing best practices, such as templates developed using Microsoft Office products, such as Excel spreadsheets, Word documents, and Microsoft projects
- Templates for both internal and customer-facing deliverables
- Document repository – a storage area for project documents, with the ability to file them within relevant project methodology areas
- Best practices project methodology content to support how to carry out various project tasks outlined within the project plan
- Content customized for Microsoft Dynamics GP and Dynamics CRM
Project Planning and Management
Implementing a new enterprise system or even a module or third party application can be a daunting task, but with Sure Step methodologies, Crestwood provides a roadmap that keeps both the Crestwood and client team members on the same page for each phase of the project. With project plans, deliverables and milestones clearly visible to all members of the joint project team, there is awareness at all times of where the project stands in terms of progress, budget and risks.
With transparent project status, the client and Crestwood team members have ample opportunity to tackle small problems before they turn into major issues. Also, by having a shared framework for viewing the progression of the project, Sure Step methodologies keep Crestwood and client team members focused on the same goals and part of the same team.
Deliverables and Project Milestones
Throughout the course of a Microsoft Dynamics implementation, Crestwood will work with clients to jointly agree on critical project milestones and deliverables. While each project engagement differs based on the client’s unique requirements and objectives, in general there are several deliverables and phases Crestwood typically includes from Sure Step that are critical to the success of any project.
The Sure Step tools used by Crestwood include the following:
1. Project Charter
The Project Charter documents the overall structure of the project including project scope, project objectives, team member roles and responsibilities, deliverables and high level timeline. One of the most important aspects of the project is agreement on what is expected from both Crestwood and client team members. By clearly defining what the team expects to accomplish and how they aim to do it, each team member understands their role in the project’s success.
2. Discovery
The Discovery process involves two main components – understanding of current state business processes and discovery of the future state that is possible within the context of the solution components. By documenting and defining the client’s existing business processes, Crestwood works with clients to engineer improved business processes that close any gaps in the existing functionality or opens new avenues by utilizing the new technology.
3. Project Plan
The Project Plan is a set of activities necessary for the successful completion of the project, with clearly defined responsibilities and timelines. While the plan is a living document, subject to change with the demands of the project, having an up-to-date plan keeps everyone aware of what’s important on a week-to-week basis. At times, it is necessary to divert resources from one task to another in order to apply maximum resources to risks before they escalate to the point that compromises the project’s success.
3. Training Plan
Training occurs at many points throughout the project, from initial discovery through post live coaching. Learning a whole new way of doing things will take time, so the training plan functions to make that process comprehensive rather than a one-stop effort. Early, frequent, and continual training makes it easier for Crestwood and its clients to understand the options for delivering a comprehensive solution.
4. Design
While the Discovery phase uncovers a client’s business requirements and objectives, the Design phase details how those requirements will be met. This includes several deliverable components including configuration design, data migration specifications, custom development specifications, and reports definition. By clearly defining, documenting and agreeing upon the solution design, Crestwood and client team members are assured that projects will be executed based on agreed upon goals and objectives.
5. Testing and Development
This last phase before deployment is both a testing and Development phase – the agreed upon design is developed and both Crestwood and clients work together to validate the execution of the design. Often an iterative process, end users validate that the data migrated, the customizations and reports function as expected, and the configuration of the system supports newly defined business processes. Once the design is accepted, the project is ready to deploy throughout the organization.
Microsoft Sure Step and You
At Crestwood, we believe that both client and Crestwood team members are equally important to the success of a project. In short, we can’t succeed without your active participation and contribution. In the beginning of a project, you know your business and Crestwood knows Dynamics – we are searching for common ground in order to implement the Microsoft solution. By working together throughout each phase of the project and leveraging the Microsoft Sure Step methodologies, we both gain insights that collectively allow us envision a new solution that maximizes the effectiveness of your technology investment.
Want to make sure your project is a success? Contact Crestwood Associates, your Chicago, Illinois, Wisconsin and Indiana source for successful consulting engagements and effective Project Management.
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